Helsinki Central Station has removed its iconic oak doors from platform entrances, replacing them with modern glass sliding doors. The wooden doors that once welcomed millions of commuters now sit in storage as railway operator VR seeks new homes for them.
The replacement work completed last week sparked immediate public concern about the fate of the distinctive doors. Many regular passengers expressed surprise at the change, having assumed the oak doors were original historical features.
VR's project manager Jani Jääskeläinen confirmed the doors remain safely stored. He stated the company aims to find suitable new locations where the doors can continue serving passengers. The removed doors dated from 2000 but followed the 1950s door design pattern.
The station's platform hall originally stood as an open shelter until 1950. A fire destroyed that structure, leading to construction of the enclosed platform hall with its characteristic doors. Architect Eliel Saarinen's original 1919 station design featured open platforms, with the platform hall added in 1925.
This door replacement represents part of Helsinki Central Station's ongoing renovation. The glass sliding doors actually align more closely with Saarinen's vision of open, light-filled spaces. They also improve accessibility for passengers with mobility challenges.
Currently, the new sliding doors remain mostly open due to ongoing construction work on some platform routes. VR officials explain they're prioritizing smooth passenger flow during the transition period. Adjustments continue to the door mechanisms and wind barrier systems.
The station's renovation extends beyond the platform entrances. Workers recently created a new passageway to Kaivokatu street for an upcoming restaurant. This dining establishment will feature its own summer terrace near Railway Square. Conservation work continues on Eero Järnefelt's large painting 'Maisema Kolilta' in the main restaurant hall.
Traditional oak doors remain in place at the station's three main entrances facing Kaivokatu, Railway Square, and Station Square. These heavily used entrances receive regular maintenance, including door mechanism repairs and surface refinishing.
The removal of familiar architectural elements often triggers public reaction in Helsinki, where residents maintain strong connections to their city's design heritage. Similar debates have occurred around other historic buildings undergoing modernization. The challenge lies in balancing preservation with practical improvements.
Railway stations across the Nordic region face similar modernization pressures. As passenger numbers grow and accessibility standards evolve, historic stations must adapt while maintaining their character. Helsinki's approach of preserving removed elements for reuse offers a potential model for other cities.
What happens next with the stored oak doors remains unclear. VR confirms multiple parties have expressed interest, but no final decisions have been announced. The doors could reappear in other railway buildings, public spaces, or even private developments seeking historical character.